This is a relationship between 2 people who register as civil partners according to the Civil Partnership Act 2004. Such a partnership only comes to an end upon death, annulment or dissolution. An order may be made for dissolution by a court after one year and on the grounds that the partnership has irretrievably broken down.
Often asked...
Am I eligible for a civil partnership?
In order to be eligible to register a civil partnership, the parties must be a) of the same sex b) not already in a civil partnership or already married c) over 16 d) not be related.
How does this differ from marriage?
There is no religious registration required or any prescribed form of words and no corresponding offence of bigamy.
How can we become civil partners?
Each party must give notice of the proposed partnership to the Registration Authority and it is then publicised during the waiting period. Signing the civil partnership document registers the partners. We can assist with the more intricate details of registration and time limits.
Financial consequences on termination
The Act makes provision for financial relief for civil partners in the same way as the Matrimonial Courses Act 1973 does for partners in a marriage. This includes periodical payments, lump sum payments, property adjustment orders and pension sharing.
